tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85199602996175990452016-08-29T15:02:25.208-07:00Heartland HappyAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-81091960222646229832014-04-08T12:52:00.001-07:002014-04-08T12:52:45.272-07:00I've re-appeared!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br />Kids Clothing Week seemed like a pretty good reason to reappear on my little blog. &nbsp;I have some guesses as to why I've been MIA but the primary is winter. &nbsp;The winter was HORRIBLE, I basically went into survival mode from January to March. &nbsp;I took care of the family and house and when I had opportunities to sew I sat and surfed the internet. Many a good quiet times can be lost to Pinterest! &nbsp;I also started knitting in January too, I've made two cowls and am working on a baby blanket. &nbsp;The couch was warm and cozy so it called to me this past winter. I've got a few pounds to prove it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--UE7b8u938I/U0RR09KtJXI/AAAAAAAACIY/CKBoLsFc4mw/s1600/DSC_0418-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--UE7b8u938I/U0RR09KtJXI/AAAAAAAACIY/CKBoLsFc4mw/s1600/DSC_0418-1.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />I have, however, persevered and thanks to some much better weather (my mood is pretty weather dependent, I think this comes from being a farm kid.) I have actually been visiting my sewing machine and feeling the need to sew and been more productive overall! :) <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4VMbJY_vaQ/U0RRzZaUoCI/AAAAAAAACIQ/EQOWAlQMP70/s1600/DSC_0414-1.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4VMbJY_vaQ/U0RRzZaUoCI/AAAAAAAACIQ/EQOWAlQMP70/s1600/DSC_0414-1.2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div><br />Luckily what Peyton needs most for spring and summer are dresses, and if you've followed me at all, I LOVE to sew dresses. &nbsp;YEAH for me!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.hannaandersson.com/is/image/Hanna/39767_94V?$FlatFullW$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://image.hannaandersson.com/is/image/Hanna/39767_94V?$FlatFullW$" width="244" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>This lovely <a href="http://www.hannaandersson.com/style.asp?from=SC&amp;pcid=25&amp;styleid=39767&amp;simg=39767_94V" target="_blank">dress by Hanna Anderson</a> has been on my mind since I saw it in their catalog back in late January. &nbsp;I love the simplicity of it, and the pop of contrast. I just can't bring myself to spend $35 on something I could make. &nbsp;And without a lot of time spent to do so. &nbsp;After much pattern deliberation I used this <a href="http://modkidboutique.com/Penny.html" target="_blank">pattern by Patty Young</a>. &nbsp;It is a quick sew with only 2 pieces and seemed like a quick project. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://modkidboutique.com/images/1-penny-cover-500px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Maddie" border="0" height="320" src="http://modkidboutique.com/images/1-penny-cover-500px.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><br />I'll leave out some of my constant inner dialog and give you that stats:<br /><b>Pattern</b>: Penny by Patty Young<br /><b>Size</b>: 8<br /><b>Fabric</b>: a yard of lightweight knit that has been sitting in my stash for way to long. <br /><b>Alterations</b>: &nbsp;To achieve the high empire waist of the inspiration dress I used the empire line in the pattern and then took it up some more, like an inch or so and then didn't add the 1/2" seam allowance. &nbsp;This also helped to shorten the dress to keep it more like the inspiration piece. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cp4MReT16E/U0RRsn0ohlI/AAAAAAAACII/aKndGxh-HIY/s1600/DSC_0424-1.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cp4MReT16E/U0RRsn0ohlI/AAAAAAAACII/aKndGxh-HIY/s1600/DSC_0424-1.2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div><br />I wasn't sure about the dress as I was sewing it. Once I had in on her this morning I liked it much better, and with the fun pop of yellow it really works for me! &nbsp;I am hoping to get at least one more dress done this week, but we'll see. &nbsp;:)<br /><br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-52024625335201158262013-11-12T11:38:00.002-08:002013-11-12T11:44:01.594-08:00Basic Dress for 15" DollI should have done this long ago, but I'm bringing home my guest post I did over on Nap Time Crafters during her Dressing up Dolly series. &nbsp;I also have a pair of<a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/02/15-doll-pajamas-tutorial.html" target="_blank"> pajamas</a> for this doll too! &nbsp;Enjoy! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PP-uFJ0e5bU/USUnAXhuytI/AAAAAAAABqs/E7vs1fTvF84/s1600/DSC_0254_casual+dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PP-uFJ0e5bU/USUnAXhuytI/AAAAAAAABqs/E7vs1fTvF84/s640/DSC_0254_casual+dress.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Cinderella can't hang out in her royal attire all the time. &nbsp;Well maybe she can, but I certainly can't! :) &nbsp;My daughter got a &nbsp;Disney toddler doll for Christmas and she quickly asked me to sew her some other clothes. &nbsp;My first thought was ugh...doll clothes! &nbsp;When I saw that Dressing Up Dolly was going on this month it helped motivate me to follow through on her request, which has been more fun than I thought it would be. &nbsp;I started with some pajamas. You can check out my tutorial for those over <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/02/15-doll-pajamas-tutorial.html" target="_blank">here</a> on my blog. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11rIgWoS9fk/USUyz6z2FII/AAAAAAAABr4/SS3xLXNmWog/s1600/DSC_0267_cinderella.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-11rIgWoS9fk/USUyz6z2FII/AAAAAAAABr4/SS3xLXNmWog/s640/DSC_0267_cinderella.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Today though I want to share this casual summer knit dress I made. &nbsp;You can download the pattern<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BzMacV_bv2cMaWNvVm14dHJYbFk/edit" target="_blank"> here</a>. &nbsp;The dress is very easy to make. &nbsp;One of the things that makes this dress so easy is the FOE (fold over elastic) I use to bind the neck and arms. &nbsp;I love FOE it comes in lots of colors and is just fun!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PK2TdZvZLOU/USUpZf8CnYI/AAAAAAAABq8/V4HjDXoHBhY/s1600/DSC_0248_FOE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PK2TdZvZLOU/USUpZf8CnYI/AAAAAAAABq8/V4HjDXoHBhY/s640/DSC_0248_FOE.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Okay enough chatting, let's sew. &nbsp;Below are the pieces you'll need for the dress. &nbsp; Besides some knit fabric you'll need 15 1/2" of FOE and 6 1/2" of velcro. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IETSp3kKT1g/USUmr4RwIcI/AAAAAAAABpk/HCLbkyA6m0k/s1600/DSC_0219_pieces.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IETSp3kKT1g/USUmr4RwIcI/AAAAAAAABpk/HCLbkyA6m0k/s640/DSC_0219_pieces.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Once you've got your pieces cut out, join the shoulders. &nbsp; I used a 1/4" seam for sewing all my pieces together. &nbsp;I did use my serger to finish the seams but that isn't necessary. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-weMmMFEtaXE/USUmuNCElSI/AAAAAAAABps/DNQM8fYh7WY/s1600/DSC_0221_shoulders.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-weMmMFEtaXE/USUmuNCElSI/AAAAAAAABps/DNQM8fYh7WY/s640/DSC_0221_shoulders.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Now attach the fold over elastic. &nbsp;Cut a piece that is 7". &nbsp;I like to find the mid-point of the elastic and pin it in the center of the shirt to help the elastic stretch evenly. &nbsp;The elastic is shorter than the material, and it will gather the neck up as you attach it. &nbsp;Use the center fold of the elastic to help place the fabric. &nbsp;Then sew right along the edge of the fabric to attach it. &nbsp;Next go back and fold the elastic over and enclose the neckline. &nbsp;I didn't take a lot of pictures of this. &nbsp;If you would like some more pictures check out the <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/02/15-doll-pajamas-tutorial.html" target="_blank">pajama tutoria</a>l I mentioned, it has more pictures of this. &nbsp;Once the neck is done, do the arms the same way. &nbsp;Use a 4 1/4" piece of elastic for each arm. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ps5mWoT8qMA/USUmx_QlvqI/AAAAAAAABp0/URZz9BeG6Qc/s1600/DSC_0226_elastic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ps5mWoT8qMA/USUmx_QlvqI/AAAAAAAABp0/URZz9BeG6Qc/s640/DSC_0226_elastic.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Here is a look at the dress with the elastic on.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3B4nB7JVgE/USUmyfnDqKI/AAAAAAAABp8/3kVaEOhRFuw/s1600/DSC_0228_elastic+on.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3B4nB7JVgE/USUmyfnDqKI/AAAAAAAABp8/3kVaEOhRFuw/s640/DSC_0228_elastic+on.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We can now sew the sides of the dress. &nbsp;Again use a 1/4" seam.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pSMhThBJU68/USUmyoqFuWI/AAAAAAAABqA/d0MkE8mG8Ao/s1600/DSC_0232_sides.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pSMhThBJU68/USUmyoqFuWI/AAAAAAAABqA/d0MkE8mG8Ao/s640/DSC_0232_sides.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Here is the dress once the sides are on. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EG83zvvTM3w/USUm4MxuyDI/AAAAAAAABqM/X6pPRW61-i8/s1600/DSC_0235_serge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EG83zvvTM3w/USUm4MxuyDI/AAAAAAAABqM/X6pPRW61-i8/s640/DSC_0235_serge.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Next fold and iron a 1/2" under all the way around the sides and bottom, shown in the first picture. &nbsp;Now we'll hem this all in one step for speed. &nbsp;Start at the top of the neck and go around to the other side.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZOWSVyQUV8/USUm5C_D2MI/AAAAAAAABqU/hm-VyPdmdQA/s1600/DSC_0237_iron+hem.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZOWSVyQUV8/USUm5C_D2MI/AAAAAAAABqU/hm-VyPdmdQA/s640/DSC_0237_iron+hem.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sedAbP9zO40/USUm4-0W-aI/AAAAAAAABqY/KF8nGcj1nqw/s1600/DSC_0239_hem.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sedAbP9zO40/USUm4-0W-aI/AAAAAAAABqY/KF8nGcj1nqw/s640/DSC_0239_hem.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />All that is left now it to attach the velcro! &nbsp;You can use normal width velcro, but I cut my 3/4" velcro in half to make a smaller strip. &nbsp;The width is up to you, however use a length of &nbsp;6 1/2". &nbsp;Remember one side goes on top and the other goes under like the picture shows. &nbsp;(Also I had just a 6" piece here, but you should add the extra 1/2" so it goes all the way to the bottom.) <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6jDbR3xbckA/USUnC9ft2MI/AAAAAAAABq0/km9apkE3tL8/s1600/DSC_0244_velcro.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6jDbR3xbckA/USUnC9ft2MI/AAAAAAAABq0/km9apkE3tL8/s640/DSC_0244_velcro.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Here are some other dresses I made. &nbsp;This pattern could also be shorted into a shirt for more dressing options! :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Q7F0_wCv3w/USU2J1-Zm3I/AAAAAAAABss/HZrFKj6Ipbw/s1600/Casual+Dress+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Q7F0_wCv3w/USU2J1-Zm3I/AAAAAAAABss/HZrFKj6Ipbw/s640/Casual+Dress+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Well that's it! &nbsp;I"m glad Cinderella has some more casual clothes! &nbsp;:) Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-24204730002064044892013-10-18T04:00:00.000-07:002013-10-18T04:00:01.597-07:00Sally DressThis dress goes back to the summer. &nbsp;I was super fortunate to be chosen by Shannon of <a href="http://www.luvinthemommyhood.com/" target="_blank">luvinthemommyhood</a> to test the adorable <a href="http://veryshannon.com/patterns/sallydress" target="_blank">Sally Dress</a>. &nbsp;I love the look of this dress. &nbsp;I'm a sucker for vintage/modern looks; and this fit perfectly into that category. &nbsp;I know we've seen lots of this dress recently but thought it was about time I shared mine. &nbsp;<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WHNM1B5a5Kw/UmBCRNYgZuI/AAAAAAAACEY/mAFS0tZvEmE/s1600/DSC_0333_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WHNM1B5a5Kw/UmBCRNYgZuI/AAAAAAAACEY/mAFS0tZvEmE/s640/DSC_0333_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I think my reason for being a bad blogger, and not posting this dress earlier is that Peyton is not into this dress. :( &nbsp;She absolutely will not wear it! &nbsp;She wore it for pictures and now is unwilling to even entertain the notion of wearing it! &nbsp;I'm unsure why; but it is a beautiful dress just hanging in her closet. &nbsp;I don't think I am the only sewing mama this happens to, but it is a bummer.&nbsp;</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QsekSeIeMnk/UmBCy3vh3fI/AAAAAAAACFA/H5xZROIYy5s/s1600/headshot+Sally+dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QsekSeIeMnk/UmBCy3vh3fI/AAAAAAAACFA/H5xZROIYy5s/s640/headshot+Sally+dress.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Here are the details of my dress. &nbsp;I sewed up a size 7 and it fit nicely for the most part, a little snug in the bodice/sleeve area, but I think that is my fault. &nbsp;I didn't do the best job attaching the lining to the sleeves.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mKRcXowEqVQ/UmBChWEh7zI/AAAAAAAACEw/ZSfr3qQFW98/s1600/Sally+dress+front+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mKRcXowEqVQ/UmBChWEh7zI/AAAAAAAACEw/ZSfr3qQFW98/s640/Sally+dress+front+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>I want to try this dress again, I think I'll make a sleeveless version and see if she likes that more. &nbsp;Also I should let her pick the fabric too. &nbsp;We are entering the age where she really wants more of a say in her wardrobe. &nbsp;(Knit clothing seems to be winning right now.)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VelAYz4OUxY/UmBCZ4SFH0I/AAAAAAAACEo/D7AKl9btsOA/s1600/DSC_0246_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VelAYz4OUxY/UmBCZ4SFH0I/AAAAAAAACEo/D7AKl9btsOA/s640/DSC_0246_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It is fun to look back at summer she was only missing one tooth, now all 4 are gone in the front! &nbsp;Hope you have a great Friday and are planning some fun fall activities for the weekend.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k74hnRg9Na4/UmBCzF0bsFI/AAAAAAAACFE/HtvRm6bbzfk/s1600/Sally+dress+in+action.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k74hnRg9Na4/UmBCzF0bsFI/AAAAAAAACFE/HtvRm6bbzfk/s640/Sally+dress+in+action.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div><br /></div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-35618266299253829692013-10-17T12:25:00.002-07:002013-10-17T13:38:16.889-07:00Peg PeopleJust a quick post today. &nbsp;I have about a million crafty things to do, but these little people were begging to be made. &nbsp;They were very fun and a nice change from sewing. &nbsp;I have a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/areeder/wood-toys/" target="_blank">pinterest board</a>&nbsp;with my inspiration for them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wxet85VoZKs/UmA2KMoZluI/AAAAAAAACD8/lOkxCv5ZzZM/s1600/DSC_1779_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wxet85VoZKs/UmA2KMoZluI/AAAAAAAACD8/lOkxCv5ZzZM/s640/DSC_1779_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I want to do some more advanced hair for the ladies next time, I did try a braid out for the little girl. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cg7lFaBoQXg/UmA18cxMfHI/AAAAAAAACDw/z7UF7KTJLB0/s1600/DSC_1782_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cg7lFaBoQXg/UmA18cxMfHI/AAAAAAAACDw/z7UF7KTJLB0/s640/DSC_1782_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I am thinking about painting a house like this <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/204562008048239951/" target="_blank">one</a>, but for right now they are living in a "previously owned" home. :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cj2IGEPS_m0/UmA2J1XqlaI/AAAAAAAACD4/m-fofOCDHNw/s1600/DSC_1763_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cj2IGEPS_m0/UmA2J1XqlaI/AAAAAAAACD4/m-fofOCDHNw/s640/DSC_1763_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />If you want to keep up with me make sure you follow me! Bloglovin is proving to be my favorite reader. Click on the link if you aren't already a follower. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5738667/?claim=98tkatpfe58">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>&nbsp; Tomorrow I'll have another dress to check out.&nbsp; Happy Fall, hope you have a beautiful day!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8yjvzF26vQE/UmA2MlkksNI/AAAAAAAACEI/uToIBGSPjqg/s1600/DSC_1784_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8yjvzF26vQE/UmA2MlkksNI/AAAAAAAACEI/uToIBGSPjqg/s640/DSC_1784_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-47515431457062435462013-10-16T04:00:00.000-07:002013-10-16T04:00:00.879-07:00Another Anywhere DressI really do like this dress, it just looks super cute and modern and is SO easy to sew up! &nbsp;Andrea the creator of Go To Patterns even has the pattern on<a href="http://gotopatterns.com/collections/go-to-patterns/products/the-anywhere-dress-for-girls" target="_blank"> sale</a> right now. &nbsp;So go get it, if you don't already have it in your collection!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Toczf63qjUw/UlxTkB5qLaI/AAAAAAAACC4/XoGhFrAEuxk/s1600/DSC_1318_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Toczf63qjUw/UlxTkB5qLaI/AAAAAAAACC4/XoGhFrAEuxk/s640/DSC_1318_4x6.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />I blogged about my stripy version of this dress <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-anywhere-dress.html" target="_blank">here</a>, which&nbsp;was back in April. It is fun to see the change in our yard from the beginning to the end of the growing season.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4GUXgsovBt8/UlxTw0Wf33I/AAAAAAAACDM/Z6T2aDTgMO4/s1600/DSC_1334_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4GUXgsovBt8/UlxTw0Wf33I/AAAAAAAACDM/Z6T2aDTgMO4/s640/DSC_1334_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>&nbsp;I was able to use the same size (7) this time around so no need to trace out a new size. And I didn't even change the sleeve length, I must really like elbow length! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5yXD5bdqxo/UlxTkNjU8dI/AAAAAAAACC0/wJcy97-34ls/s1600/DSC_1332_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5yXD5bdqxo/UlxTkNjU8dI/AAAAAAAACC0/wJcy97-34ls/s640/DSC_1332_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />The fabric came from Girl Charlee quite awhile ago, I really like the metallic hearts; they make the fabric have some movement. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ss_LPav68Y/UlxT5MeUilI/AAAAAAAACDc/vGoeCYxwW-8/s1600/DSC_1342_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ss_LPav68Y/UlxT5MeUilI/AAAAAAAACDc/vGoeCYxwW-8/s640/DSC_1342_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The headband I added just because they're cute. I don't think she ever leaves a headband in all day at school, they always come home in her backpack, but they make me smile. &nbsp;I used<a href="http://www.lilblueboo.com/2011/09/the-knit-headband-pattern-free-pdf-download.html" target="_blank"> this tutorial</a> for it. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3HD7W7eA_jM/UlxT12ySn9I/AAAAAAAACDU/6pe59r9V4mY/s1600/DSC_1336_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3HD7W7eA_jM/UlxT12ySn9I/AAAAAAAACDU/6pe59r9V4mY/s640/DSC_1336_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />She likes to help with her poses these days and thought hiding in our evergreen was a great idea. You can't see much of the dress, but it is kinda cute! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hhTWSH9D6UE/UlxTsKm5EBI/AAAAAAAACDE/tLPq3FiLQvg/s1600/DSC_1306_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hhTWSH9D6UE/UlxTsKm5EBI/AAAAAAAACDE/tLPq3FiLQvg/s640/DSC_1306_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Love the pop of color with the red salvia. &nbsp;Hope you are having a great Wednesday! &nbsp;Thanks for visiting!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-48571231201980850522013-10-14T04:00:00.000-07:002013-10-14T05:34:21.052-07:00Bright Plus Quilt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you ever just fall in love with a particular bolt of fabric and just HAVE to figure out something to do with it? &nbsp;This happens to me from time to time and usually results in a project I didn't even have on my "to do" radar. &nbsp;When shopping at my local quilt shop during a great sale (buy 10 yards, get 10 yards free) I came across this fantastic <a href="http://www.robertkaufman.com/fabrics/blythe/ARF-14038-269/" target="_blank">print</a> from Rebecca Bischoff's first collection called <a href="http://www.robertkaufman.com/fabrics/blythe/" target="_blank">Blythe</a>.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnNTDIsIi_Q/UlrrUvxUjEI/AAAAAAAACCA/yuq2LL0oMgA/s1600/DSC_1344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnNTDIsIi_Q/UlrrUvxUjEI/AAAAAAAACCA/yuq2LL0oMgA/s640/DSC_1344.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I quickly decided to make a plus quilt since I have been admiring them for quite sometime. I picked up all the fabric for this at the sale. I made my own pattern using 3.5" squares. &nbsp;The top is mostly Kona cotton solids. &nbsp;There are a few prints mixed in, they come from my scrap bin and one print from Blythe. &nbsp;</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OId5Bb5kQfU/UlrqZI8qPQI/AAAAAAAACBo/VWaMzMZ_L0k/s1600/IMG_0467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OId5Bb5kQfU/UlrqZI8qPQI/AAAAAAAACBo/VWaMzMZ_L0k/s640/IMG_0467.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've always quilted with my machine and although I love some of the patterns long arms can do, I really prefer straight lines anyway. For this project I sewed a line on each side of the seams a quarter inch each way. I LOVE the texture it added!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n4Xe1j2iBow/UlrrLBwIfPI/AAAAAAAACBw/OEyJXrCgZVI/s1600/DSC_1346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n4Xe1j2iBow/UlrrLBwIfPI/AAAAAAAACBw/OEyJXrCgZVI/s640/DSC_1346.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;I used another print from the collection for the binding. &nbsp;It is chevronish, I was thinking I would like it more than I did, but it is fine.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7sl7qdV4nDQ/UlrrSgr8w7I/AAAAAAAACB4/oju0RouvMc4/s1600/DSC_1348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7sl7qdV4nDQ/UlrrSgr8w7I/AAAAAAAACB4/oju0RouvMc4/s640/DSC_1348.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I didn't get a shot of the back I was completely happy with but here is something. :) &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JcuJeCra9RQ/Ulrr1ybDqaI/AAAAAAAACCI/bvUzirTHdxY/s1600/DSC_1360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JcuJeCra9RQ/Ulrr1ybDqaI/AAAAAAAACCI/bvUzirTHdxY/s640/DSC_1360.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />When I took it into my <a href="http://www.pineneedles.net/store/pc/home.asp" target="_blank">local quilt shop</a> to show off I heard a lady comment that it was a nice "kids quilt". &nbsp;I admit it did turn out very bright but I really am impressed with the overall effect of the design and I am totally fine curling up with it on my couch on these colder mornings we are beginning to have. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KlHMHUiwpow/UlrsRWgP9UI/AAAAAAAACCY/CQbpSutA384/s1600/DSC_1357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KlHMHUiwpow/UlrsRWgP9UI/AAAAAAAACCY/CQbpSutA384/s640/DSC_1357.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;I have a couple of dresses to blog about later this week so hope you'll check in again soon!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-28148118002458039302013-10-10T06:00:00.000-07:002013-10-13T12:23:28.893-07:00Back to School Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br />This year I let Peyton chose a pattern and fabric from my stash for her back to school dress. &nbsp;She started Kindergarten this fall and I wanted to continue my<a href="http://heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2012/09/oh-how-i-love-this-dress.html" target="_blank"> tradition</a> of making her a dress for her first day. &nbsp;I made this dress during my week of peaches I talked about <a href="http://heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/10/peaches.html" target="_blank">here</a>, &nbsp;it was a stretch to get it done but luckily she chose a pattern I've made a few times!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aPsXYO9Zwyc/UlMTTeS9RLI/AAAAAAAACA0/SpC9xjJ34iU/s1600/DSC_0927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aPsXYO9Zwyc/UlMTTeS9RLI/AAAAAAAACA0/SpC9xjJ34iU/s640/DSC_0927.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />She picked this Simplicity pattern and wanted it with the 3 tiers as shown. &nbsp;I only had a yard of the fabric she picked but also lucky for me it was from my local fabric shop so it was easy to go grab another half yard!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiBqkT9K6Mw/UKVN34uD0xI/AAAAAAAABPA/VRH4PFlHW7A/s1600/2377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiBqkT9K6Mw/UKVN34uD0xI/AAAAAAAABPA/VRH4PFlHW7A/s400/2377.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I only got 1 good picture of her where the whole dress is visible. &nbsp;It was an easy sew and looked quite cute for her first day! &nbsp;The fabric is <a href="http://www.robertkaufman.com/fabrics/spot_on/EZC-12872-186/" target="_blank">Robert Kaufman 'Spot On'</a>&nbsp;and I made a size 7.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4QdD6ynWWw/UlMTtA9ciiI/AAAAAAAACBE/KxEP1Beg2KU/s1600/DSC_0938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4QdD6ynWWw/UlMTtA9ciiI/AAAAAAAACBE/KxEP1Beg2KU/s640/DSC_0938.JPG" width="422" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is a close up of the sign she held up, where exactly I first saw it I can't remember, but was just what I was wanting! &nbsp;Here is the <a href="http://glamorousbride.blogspot.com/2013/08/first-day-of-school-printable.html" target="_blank">link</a> if it trips your trigger too, she has all grades! :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PVYnaEXgBFU/UlMTayTtd_I/AAAAAAAACA8/XS3RsMpnRaA/s1600/DSC_0933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PVYnaEXgBFU/UlMTayTtd_I/AAAAAAAACA8/XS3RsMpnRaA/s640/DSC_0933.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;She is loving school and happy to get on the bus every morning! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--npvzZEBwP0/UlMT5ic6bZI/AAAAAAAACBM/7WVh-2-8p14/s1600/DSC_0953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--npvzZEBwP0/UlMT5ic6bZI/AAAAAAAACBM/7WVh-2-8p14/s640/DSC_0953.JPG" width="422" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-12318786520056708542013-10-08T06:00:00.000-07:002013-10-13T12:23:41.847-07:00Peaches!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We have a 'Contender' peach tree in our yard. &nbsp;This is it's third year to bear fruit and it's only 4 years old. &nbsp;This year it was loaded, this picture shows only one branch. &nbsp;I think we picked about 80-90 lbs of fruit!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b87r3JX2hzk/UlMJEgEv1wI/AAAAAAAACAk/aAJdb0d2RWs/s1600/DSC_0836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b87r3JX2hzk/UlMJEgEv1wI/AAAAAAAACAk/aAJdb0d2RWs/s640/DSC_0836.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I truly believe the best way to eat a peach is fresh, however we weren't going to be eating 80 lbs worth so I gave some away and we ate a many as we could possibly stand to eat and bake with and I preserved the rest.&nbsp;</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yNxOGZ5C6rE/UlMIngXXg6I/AAAAAAAACAM/RVn8V3LG-Io/s1600/DSC_0889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yNxOGZ5C6rE/UlMIngXXg6I/AAAAAAAACAM/RVn8V3LG-Io/s640/DSC_0889.JPG" width="422" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My counter looked like this for about a week, each time I'd get it almost emptied off I'd go pick again!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oU2Pzl1skeY/UlMIy3hkPqI/AAAAAAAACAU/7KhrTf_GXz8/s1600/DSC_0915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oU2Pzl1skeY/UlMIy3hkPqI/AAAAAAAACAU/7KhrTf_GXz8/s640/DSC_0915.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was the first time I'd used a canner alone and I felt like such a grown up doing almost everything solo! :) &nbsp;First I tackled basic canned peaches. &nbsp;And to be honest I must have read 15 different blog post on doing so and really can't remember whose I used. I think I just took information from all of them and went to work! I used a lighter syrup and between 3 different sessions ended up with 18 quarts and 9 pints. &nbsp;We've eaten one so far and it was fantastic!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also made <a href="http://foodbabbles.com/2013/07/rosemary-peach-butter/" target="_blank">peach butter</a>, <a href="http://www.americastestkitchenfeed.com/do-it-yourself/2012/06/how-to-make-raspberry-peach-jam/" target="_blank">raspberry peach jam</a>, <a href="http://natashaskitchen.com/2012/08/26/country-peach-preserves/" target="_blank">peach preserves</a> all in half pints. &nbsp;The peach butter is great on pancakes and waffles, the raspberry peach jam doesn't use pectin so it is a bit runnier but awesome mixed into vanilla yogurt (I like Chobani), and the peach preserves take awhile to cook down but they're great too! &nbsp;It was fun to experiment and to have such great success canning made the week even better! I also froze quite a few slices on cookie sheet and then transferred to freezer bags, these I can bake with or perhaps just eat?&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z8kxuUbDGpE/UlMI22nPfjI/AAAAAAAACAc/xnq8B8Vnink/s1600/IMG_0488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z8kxuUbDGpE/UlMI22nPfjI/AAAAAAAACAc/xnq8B8Vnink/s640/IMG_0488.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I will say I didn't do much cooking during that last week in August and I had to recover for a few days afterwards but now that we are starting to open a few jars it was well worth the work! &nbsp;As most things in life are. &nbsp;Thanks for stopping in!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1wNcjr8PKmE/UlMIkUonFnI/AAAAAAAACAE/1j3nFIR40zs/s1600/DSC_0885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1wNcjr8PKmE/UlMIkUonFnI/AAAAAAAACAE/1j3nFIR40zs/s640/DSC_0885.JPG" width="422" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-39317840416773377062013-10-05T14:08:00.000-07:002013-10-05T14:08:30.512-07:00Where have I been?I see that I haven't blogged since summer KCWC ended! &nbsp;I wish I had a list of really good reasons but the best one is just life. &nbsp;We tried to pack as much summer into August as possible with things like swimming, gardening (love my tomatoes), trip to an amusement park, and a State Fair visit. &nbsp;Peyton started Kindergarten August 27th and that same week I was drowning in peaches and processed them everyday of the week! &nbsp;More on those peaches next post. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnE3QaSJXx0/UlB9R2m7nyI/AAAAAAAAB_w/hiZvUHa4Xf8/s1600/DSC_0607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnE3QaSJXx0/UlB9R2m7nyI/AAAAAAAAB_w/hiZvUHa4Xf8/s640/DSC_0607.JPG" width="422" /></a></div><br />Oh to be young again! &nbsp;This girl loves the water.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D1upaoyggYs/UlB84wb1OUI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/77GbT_DFyzk/s1600/DSC_0512_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D1upaoyggYs/UlB84wb1OUI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/77GbT_DFyzk/s640/DSC_0512_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I feel like all this just happened, how can life move that fast!?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPEp8Rn6Q6o/UlB9Q8h3QbI/AAAAAAAAB_s/zbxxm5zxTyY/s1600/IMG_4242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPEp8Rn6Q6o/UlB9Q8h3QbI/AAAAAAAAB_s/zbxxm5zxTyY/s640/IMG_4242.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />Yes, that is a giant tractor wheel!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpIz-Hba76g/UlB9PxXj01I/AAAAAAAAB_g/G2J0NpI1BMo/s1600/IMG_4273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpIz-Hba76g/UlB9PxXj01I/AAAAAAAAB_g/G2J0NpI1BMo/s640/IMG_4273.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've also been on a big reading kick since the end of July, I've read 11 books. &nbsp;(This number shocked me, I guessed 7 before I double checked!) &nbsp;I decided to add a Goodreads widget to my sidebar in case anyone is interested in what I've read.&nbsp; Anyone else out there a big reader, any books to recommend? &nbsp;Of my recent reads I loved Beautiful Disaster and the first two Selection series books. &nbsp;I would say my happiest solo moments are spent cutting out fabric or reading a good book. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z2FezHcGOg8/UlB9eBCKf9I/AAAAAAAAB_4/qK7vxPgAe1U/s1600/DSC_0889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z2FezHcGOg8/UlB9eBCKf9I/AAAAAAAAB_4/qK7vxPgAe1U/s640/DSC_0889.JPG" width="422" /></a></div><br />I have been sewing too, just not sharing! &nbsp;I have quite a few posts written to share in the next few weeks. &nbsp;I really did miss being here, but thoroughly enjoyed the break. &nbsp;And my sincerest apologies for the summer post in early October! :)<br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-11567393118187205962013-07-24T19:40:00.000-07:002013-07-24T19:40:02.228-07:00One more KCW project!I finished this outfit Sunday, the last day of KCW and am just getting around to posting. &nbsp;I've had VBS all this week, playing games with preschoolers has been fun, but not good for keeping up with things at home!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3VZOtZTIhG0/UfCMBSoSybI/AAAAAAAAB9g/0_5K3osY6cw/s1600/DSC_0173_made+shorts2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3VZOtZTIhG0/UfCMBSoSybI/AAAAAAAAB9g/0_5K3osY6cw/s640/DSC_0173_made+shorts2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I used the same Ottobre pattern that I used with the <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/07/kcw-day-4to-many-irons-in-fire.html" target="_blank">gray and black tee</a> from earlier in the week. It was easy to just make the same pattern. &nbsp;I used a recycled tee for the red fabric but the orange strip is new. &nbsp;It was nice to have the hems for the sleeves, although these also got miss cut so two old red shirts were "harmed" in the making of this new shirt! :) &nbsp;Other than that I am really happy with it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jq5fMVcTvHQ/UfCMCjVR8JI/AAAAAAAAB9o/D42iomRLPk0/s1600/DSC_0179_orange+tee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jq5fMVcTvHQ/UfCMCjVR8JI/AAAAAAAAB9o/D42iomRLPk0/s640/DSC_0179_orange+tee.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />For the shorts I just could not resist Dana's new <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2013/06/new-pattern-kid-shorts-are-here.html#comment-213140" target="_blank">Kid Shorts</a> pattern, I mean $6 for shorts for both kids and in sizes 12 months to 10 years? &nbsp;Plus all the different finishes, there was just no way!! :) &nbsp;It was definitely worth it! &nbsp;I hope to make a couple more pairs and will be turning them into pants for Carter this fall. &nbsp;I love the pockets and I really should have made them flat front but was too lazy, you don't really notice it and it saved me a little time. &nbsp;I also left off back pockets mainly for speed sake too, I do wish I'd thrown them on but I could always fiddle and put them on later. &nbsp; &nbsp;<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RPb5Sy6Wl4Y/UfCMCjRoAuI/AAAAAAAAB9k/6e24v8ZiNPc/s1600/DSC_0178_close+up.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RPb5Sy6Wl4Y/UfCMCjRoAuI/AAAAAAAAB9k/6e24v8ZiNPc/s640/DSC_0178_close+up.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The peek of red you see on the pockets was some red robot fabric for the lining that I added just because I didn't was to make plain chambray shorts! You don't notice it, but I know it's there! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EgM5k0tYoCU/UfCL9mILHhI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/ZWXrtf2C1SA/s1600/DSC_0166_made+shorts.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EgM5k0tYoCU/UfCL9mILHhI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/ZWXrtf2C1SA/s640/DSC_0166_made+shorts.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Here's hoping to a more successful fall KCW! &nbsp;If you want to check out all the great <a href="http://www.kidsclothesweek.com/projects/browseprojects" target="_blank">summer projects</a>&nbsp;made head on over!<br />Until next time! :)<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-60357658590103415182013-07-18T13:10:00.002-07:002013-07-18T20:38:13.518-07:00KCW day 4...too many irons in the fire!My KCW started off in a terrible fashion! &nbsp;First I probably didn't have time to join in this week, but really missed not doing it in the spring so I decided to sign up regardless! &nbsp;I have been meaning to sew a couple more outfits for Carter all summer and thought that KCW would help me do it! &nbsp;And it has, but it's been less that pleasant. &nbsp;I decided to recycle tees to make the first shirt. &nbsp;Which is good...except I haven't sewn recently where I needed to worry about saving pre-made hems and messed up cutting not once but twice. Good thing I had extra shirts! &nbsp;I do like preserving existing hems because it does same time but not when you mis-cut!! &nbsp;I also sewed the back of the shirt backwards so them hem is switch around, luckily you don't notice it. &nbsp;I mean really...sometimes I wonder what else could go wrong!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dD39P7oFZgA/UehJnP3kcpI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/n5GYeJZUDS8/s1600/baseball+tee+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dD39P7oFZgA/UehJnP3kcpI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/n5GYeJZUDS8/s640/baseball+tee+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The pattern for the tee was from the Ottobre autumn 2012 issue. &nbsp;The pattern has long sleeves so I used another tee of his to decide where to cut for the short sleeve. &nbsp;It was an easy pattern just 3 pieces. &nbsp;I have another one to share later this week once I get the shorts made to go with it. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aDVZw_9UU4Y/UehJoTyi_sI/AAAAAAAAB8g/eeEF1Awgb-s/s1600/baseball+tee+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aDVZw_9UU4Y/UehJoTyi_sI/AAAAAAAAB8g/eeEF1Awgb-s/s640/baseball+tee+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--MgrHRvtO1A/UehJqomkhoI/AAAAAAAAB8o/YSYpX71_ZhE/s1600/shirt+front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--MgrHRvtO1A/UehJqomkhoI/AAAAAAAAB8o/YSYpX71_ZhE/s640/shirt+front.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Speaking of shorts I used the same free pattern from Caila Made that I used with these&nbsp;<a href="http://www.alidamakes.com/2013/03/calling-all-kids-heartland-happy.html" target="_blank">cat shorts</a>&nbsp;to make these lovely orange gingham ones. &nbsp;I did lengthen the pattern by an inch in hopes he can wear them next summer too. And I raised the rise of the waist a bit too since I thought my first pair was a bit low rise for me. &nbsp;I added back pockets to since I like that addition to basic shorts.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OutbGEPPymw/UehJrkURBII/AAAAAAAAB80/F8WURFhB8tM/s1600/shorts+back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OutbGEPPymw/UehJrkURBII/AAAAAAAAB80/F8WURFhB8tM/s640/shorts+back.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We will be celebrating Carter's second birthday this weekend and my house is a mess and I've got a cake to make so hopefully I can get my other outfit for him done. &nbsp;I also have an&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-anywhere-dress.html" target="_blank">Anywhere dress&nbsp;</a>cut out that I would like to get finished too! &nbsp;Summer seems to be flying by with kid activities and lots of pool time (especially this week with all our heat!) &nbsp;I am looking forward to sewing more once school starts back up!<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EROlsMppT4A/UehJmrOE0OI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/Txv8QxiHKiM/s1600/baseball+tee+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EROlsMppT4A/UehJmrOE0OI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/Txv8QxiHKiM/s640/baseball+tee+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Oh...one other very fun note! &nbsp;I ran into Vanessa from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.vanessachristenson.com/" target="_blank">V and Co&nbsp;</a>on Tuesday at JoAnn's in town! &nbsp;I follow her blog and love her<a href="http://www.unitednotions.com/fcc_simply_style.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;latest fabric</a>&nbsp;line. &nbsp;Of course I went right up and introduced myself and she was of course very lovely and nice! &nbsp;It was a fun treat, especially as I was just coming from spending an hour in a half at the DMV renewing my drivers license! &nbsp; Until next time, happy sewing!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BKi94D0ULvA/UehJrTWLhMI/AAAAAAAAB8w/nqFmK_tRQHc/s1600/baseball+tee+and+lawn+mower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BKi94D0ULvA/UehJrTWLhMI/AAAAAAAAB8w/nqFmK_tRQHc/s640/baseball+tee+and+lawn+mower.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-20261355339908910432013-07-03T12:50:00.000-07:002013-07-03T12:51:27.109-07:00Scoop Top...sewing for ME!Hello, sorry for the sparse blogging here recently. &nbsp;I have over booked my summer so far and seem to be having trouble finding the time to sew and blog, but I have high hopes for this month! :) &nbsp;Today I've got some sewing for me! Yeah! &nbsp;If you haven't tried Kristin's <a href="http://skirtastop.com/2013/04/26/scoop-top-free-pattern-and-tutorial/" target="_blank">Scoop Top</a> you have to give it a try. Even if you're like me and think you won't fit into the small/med. free pattern she has available; print it and see! &nbsp;If it does't work she is working on a wider range of sizes, I believe. What got me to take the plunge and try it was when I saw this cute top by&nbsp;<a href="http://www.noodle-head.com/2013/05/another-scoop-top.html" target="_blank">Anna</a>,&nbsp;I thought maybe it will work, and it did!! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS2225z89rE/UdR-Z3-2MII/AAAAAAAAB7k/7ZXx9kfa3sw/s1600/DSC_0492_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS2225z89rE/UdR-Z3-2MII/AAAAAAAAB7k/7ZXx9kfa3sw/s640/DSC_0492_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I didn't really change much at all other than raising the neck up a bit for my preference. &nbsp;It is ultra flattering and SO comfy! &nbsp;I love how the cut is fitted enough to be figure flattering, but then where mommas (at least this momma) needs a bit more room it widens out a bit to help hide that dreaded middle! I'd wear it everyday if I could. In fact it's been made for at least 3 weeks and that's been part of my problem in blogging about it. &nbsp;I've worn it so much that either it or myself have needed cleaning! :) <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Gcuv_Hd2KY/UdR-ZhCRiqI/AAAAAAAAB7g/qnFVO6eBx-Y/s1600/DSC_0503_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Gcuv_Hd2KY/UdR-ZhCRiqI/AAAAAAAAB7g/qnFVO6eBx-Y/s640/DSC_0503_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The fabric is from JoAnn's and it is a couple of years old. &nbsp;I was concerned that it would be too busy, but I really like it. &nbsp;It was on hand and that was the biggest factor! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pD9hi6ChJY/UdR-YvkCbAI/AAAAAAAAB7U/bXKd_HAN4SQ/s1600/DSC_0505_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1pD9hi6ChJY/UdR-YvkCbAI/AAAAAAAAB7U/bXKd_HAN4SQ/s640/DSC_0505_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I did the sleeves the way Anna did and finished them like the neckline. &nbsp;I think I like that better than just hemming the under. &nbsp;There will be more of these great tees in my future!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qHPi13xVLkQ/UdR-bGkLhTI/AAAAAAAAB7s/gMiCr98xU0A/s1600/DSC_0510_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qHPi13xVLkQ/UdR-bGkLhTI/AAAAAAAAB7s/gMiCr98xU0A/s400/DSC_0510_4x6.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>We were at my parents this past weekend and my dad has been bailing hay so I decided that might be a fun backdrop for some pictures! &nbsp;I love the country and while I enjoy my city life now, being home feels like a bit of heaven! (Oh, and my mom made me a belated birthday cake, that made the weekend down right perfect!) Thanks for stopping by, have a fun and happy 4th of July!!<br />p.s. I couldn't leave out the cows, how can you not love cows! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m-ktCDKY7fI/UdR-gKSDBpI/AAAAAAAAB78/KarHgYq3wK4/s1600/DSC_0531_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m-ktCDKY7fI/UdR-gKSDBpI/AAAAAAAAB78/KarHgYq3wK4/s640/DSC_0531_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-29374030323934511162013-06-11T05:00:00.000-07:002013-06-11T05:00:15.423-07:00T-shirts and the Tinny pattern winner!!**The winner of the Tinny pattern is Nicole! &nbsp;Congratulations! &nbsp;I'll pass your e-mail address onto An.<br /><ul style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.1875px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li class="sidebar-item" style="margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></li></ul>I'm guessing your kids wear a lot of t-shirts. &nbsp;Mine do, anyway. &nbsp;And while I buy many of them I am finding that making them gives me warm fuzzy feelings! :) &nbsp;You see I've figured out that I sew mainly as an expression of love. &nbsp;I love my kids and seeing them in handmade clothes makes my heart happy. &nbsp;Also t-shirts are a quick sew and that is also a big plus. &nbsp;I use Rae's skinny tee as the base for most of my tee's. &nbsp;My only big change is that I always make the neck binding bigger, because for me when cut as per the pattern the neck opening is too tight (at least for my kids heads), but otherwise it is perfect.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4j_iEh35WQ/UbYeVj7DQSI/AAAAAAAAB6c/GdBwoqLz6uA/s1600/DSC_0069_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4j_iEh35WQ/UbYeVj7DQSI/AAAAAAAAB6c/GdBwoqLz6uA/s640/DSC_0069_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>&nbsp;I recently tried another pattern for tees and was really happy with the result! &nbsp;I bought the book&nbsp;<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Growing-Up-Sew-Liberated-Handmade/dp/1596681624/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1370890093&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=growing+up+sew+liberated" target="_blank">Growing Up Sew Liberated </a>mainly&nbsp;for the envelope tee pattern mainly which I wrote about <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2012/06/envelope-tee-review.html" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;And actually that t-shirt fits this summer, so when questioning sizing in that book, make the smaller one! :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lwliH0u2LvM/UbYeUg7j4LI/AAAAAAAAB6U/d0dRqYub4-M/s1600/DSC_0068_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lwliH0u2LvM/UbYeUg7j4LI/AAAAAAAAB6U/d0dRqYub4-M/s640/DSC_0068_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />&nbsp;The Crossover tee is another great pattern from the book! &nbsp;I omitted the bottom band to make it more daytime wear and less pajama like. &nbsp;The<a href="http://www.girlcharlee.com/vintage-birds-on-mint-green-cotton-jersey-blend-knit-fabric/girl-charlee-p-6578.html?cPath=143" target="_blank"> fabric</a> is from Girl Charlee and part of their exclusive Vintage Revival collection, and it's just lovely! &nbsp;Girl Charlee is a great place to hunt for knit fabric and at great prices too! This bird print just looks like summer to me!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RKPrFckIrwk/UbYeWMltJwI/AAAAAAAAB6k/wdyYxQ0M2-g/s1600/DSC_0090_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RKPrFckIrwk/UbYeWMltJwI/AAAAAAAAB6k/wdyYxQ0M2-g/s640/DSC_0090_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The crossover tee only goes to size 5 but it is a generous pattern. &nbsp;Peyton doesn't wear a 5 in commercial clothing anymore but I just added a little over an inch in length and it fits great. Here is a little action shot, badminton, her newly discovered sport! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58ZpBCtMTAM/UbYeinovtsI/AAAAAAAAB60/zfIo-U8KLWs/s1600/DSC_0050_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58ZpBCtMTAM/UbYeinovtsI/AAAAAAAAB60/zfIo-U8KLWs/s640/DSC_0050_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Carter also got a new tee recently. &nbsp;My Grandma has turned over some of her kids fabric stash to me and this cute print matched perfectly with a pair of green pants that needed a top! I used the Skinny tee pattern for the shirt and it fits my skinny boy perfectly. &nbsp;He's really into vehicles and likes to points out the red trucks on the tee, so he's a fan! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9n2aqj0gfs/UbYehvK0soI/AAAAAAAAB6s/BTEE00F0rdo/s1600/DSC_0055_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9n2aqj0gfs/UbYehvK0soI/AAAAAAAAB6s/BTEE00F0rdo/s640/DSC_0055_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Sewing for my kids is really such a joy and seeing them play in handmade clothes is the best feeling! &nbsp;Have a happy Tuesday! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7HDnJM6--S4/UbYei4uyzRI/AAAAAAAAB64/sAsObyI38_o/s1600/DSC_0041_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7HDnJM6--S4/UbYei4uyzRI/AAAAAAAAB64/sAsObyI38_o/s640/DSC_0041_4x6.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><span id="true-random-integer-generator-credits" style="border: 0px; color: #777777; display: block; font-family: verdana, sans; font-size: 6pt; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 1px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><pre style="background-color: #f0f0f0; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); color: #fffcfc; font-size: 13px; height: 50px; margin: auto; overflow: auto; padding: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap; width: 167.5px;"><span id="true-random-integer-generator-credits" style="border: 0px; color: #777777; display: block; font-family: verdana, sans; font-size: 6pt; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 1px; text-align: right; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal;"><span id="true-random-integer-generator-credits" style="border: 0px; display: block; font-size: 6pt; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 1px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></span></pre>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-43345795772493292842013-06-07T05:00:00.000-07:002013-06-07T05:00:01.103-07:00Birthday fun (my first giveaway!)I've got a treat today! &nbsp;My birthday is Sunday and I'm hoping for at least a couple of fun surprises. &nbsp;Fortunately I have one for you too! &nbsp;An from Straight Grain has a new pattern; which I'm guessing you already know! :) And she's generously offered a copy for each of her testers to giveaway! &nbsp;Yeah!! &nbsp;After seeing all the<a href="http://straight-grain.blogspot.be/2013/06/tinny-winny.html" target="_blank"> fun dresses </a>other testers made I can't wait to make another, I think an asymmetrical collar is calling my name!<br /><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<img alt="Tinny dress pattern sizes 1 year - 6 years" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/013/1/7859621/il_570xN.465057320_6je7.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>I actually gifted myself this year and bought a new <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001S2PPT0/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1" target="_blank">camera lens</a>. &nbsp;I think it is going to be a fun new tool to have! &nbsp;Here is a glimpse of my next post using my new lens. What is it about little boys that is just overwhelmingly adorable?!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ja3f41oAGKk/UbFRW7Lb0JI/AAAAAAAAB6E/oNF29smk4Ow/s1600/DSC_0050_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ja3f41oAGKk/UbFRW7Lb0JI/AAAAAAAAB6E/oNF29smk4Ow/s640/DSC_0050_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>To enter to win a copy of the wonderful new Tinny pattern please leave me a comment about what your ideal birthday gift would be! &nbsp;And for an extra entry please tell me how you are following me! &nbsp;<i>The giveaway will be open through Monday June 10th and I'll announce the winner on Tuesday! &nbsp;</i></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-70800213684026213302013-06-03T20:19:00.001-07:002013-07-19T13:11:29.810-07:00A Tinny Dress (a new Straight Grain pattern) and a healthy dose of honesty!You may not have noticed but I've been absent around here! &nbsp;I knew May would be a crazy month and I was totally right! &nbsp;If you throw graduations, dance recitals, and weddings (at least we didn't have one of those this year) into any month in gets busy but then you add our wedding anniversary (we celebrated 9 years!) and the garage sale I had to have; things gets really nuts! <br />But in all that crazy I still found time to sew because sewing keeps me happy! &nbsp;I was fortunate to be a tester again for An of Straight Grain for her newly released pattern <a href="http://straight-grain.blogspot.com/2013/06/4-collars-3-skirts-2-sleeves-1-pattern.html" target="_blank">Tinny</a>! &nbsp;I'd seen this dress on her blog and was thrilled to get a chance to try it out. &nbsp;It is a bit different than what I am normally drawn to but looked like something I'd learn from and I'm always eager to try something new!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2Msb_8pULg/Ua1Qiy-RXFI/AAAAAAAAB5I/fOn_Ovg09d8/s1600/DSC_0650_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2Msb_8pULg/Ua1Qiy-RXFI/AAAAAAAAB5I/fOn_Ovg09d8/s640/DSC_0650_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I'm very glad I did! &nbsp;An is so right when she says a circle skirt makes any girl happy. &nbsp;Mine loves to twirl in her new dress!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WidDnW1uoqM/Ua1QmfaBI4I/AAAAAAAAB5U/DsUuGTb7dpQ/s1600/circle+skirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WidDnW1uoqM/Ua1QmfaBI4I/AAAAAAAAB5U/DsUuGTb7dpQ/s640/circle+skirt.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I tested the largest size of the pattern the 6y. The patterns sizes are 1-6 years. &nbsp;There are so many style options to choose from. &nbsp;You could make this dress so many ways and that is a big selling point to me in a pattern! &nbsp;For this dress I choose the peter pan collar, the notched sleeves and the circle skirt. &nbsp;The fabric is Pearl Bracelets by Lizzy House. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eb2ZIXzgI6U/Ua1QnwlHqFI/AAAAAAAAB5c/nxVvtBhjzPE/s1600/notch+sleeve.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eb2ZIXzgI6U/Ua1QnwlHqFI/AAAAAAAAB5c/nxVvtBhjzPE/s640/notch+sleeve.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another appealing element to me was the blind zipper. &nbsp;Peyton's hair is long and button closures don't make her very happy since they seem to get her hair wrapped in them. &nbsp;I've been wanted to learn more about zippers so I could go that route instead of buttons. &nbsp;I've got a bit more to learn with a blind zipper but I'm learning! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-msLmc9IShpU/Ua1QsL5643I/AAAAAAAAB5s/SyzOXVzO9zI/s1600/zipper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-msLmc9IShpU/Ua1QsL5643I/AAAAAAAAB5s/SyzOXVzO9zI/s640/zipper.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Testing this dress was adding one more thing to my hectic May but I'm really glad I did! &nbsp;I'm looking forward to making another one soon! <strike>&nbsp;<span style="color: red;">To enter for a chance to win a copy of the Tinny pattern click&nbsp;</span><a href="http://heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/06/birthday-fun-my-first-giveaway.html" target="_blank">here</a><span style="color: red;">. &nbsp;GOOD LUCK! &nbsp;:)</span></strike><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2mmja5RhPk/Ua1QikBSA_I/AAAAAAAAB48/v33XiDIji1I/s1600/DSC_0660_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2mmja5RhPk/Ua1QikBSA_I/AAAAAAAAB48/v33XiDIji1I/s640/DSC_0660_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And now a little honesty! &nbsp;Did anyone know I've been at this a year?! &nbsp;My first post was on May 30th, 2012. &nbsp;I've learned SO much about blogging this past year! Some of my favorite have been: <br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1) Taking more photos and spending the money on a nice camera!<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2) Having a virtual diary of my sewing is very fun on a personal level.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3) Feeling more a part of the sewing community that has taught me LOTS!<br />There are some things that I've been less happy with.<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; 1) I've got a limited time to sew/blog and the more I blog the less I sew! : (<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; 2) Also blogging seems to be more competitive than I realized, maybe that's just me. (I seem to have really checked out of my competitive nature when I started staying home!)<br />So what I'm saying is I'm not going anywhere, however, I I think my past notion of becoming a BIG/frequent blogger is not what I want either. &nbsp;I'm a Mom to two wonderful kids and I want to hang with them, they're getting big way to fast for my liking! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cXgLi6Y6af0/Ua1QcZKI2bI/AAAAAAAAB4s/_vBWlOEttIE/s1600/DSC_0626_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cXgLi6Y6af0/Ua1QcZKI2bI/AAAAAAAAB4s/_vBWlOEttIE/s640/DSC_0626_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I also think I'll be expanding what I write about. &nbsp;Another FYI, I'm a Horticulturist (currently retired as my husband jokes). &nbsp;I spent much of May planting my garden and containers. &nbsp;I'm thinking some "Green" posts are in my future.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jrn5atquneA/Ua1QcG0EekI/AAAAAAAAB4o/1lNEJFxuawo/s1600/DSC_0611_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jrn5atquneA/Ua1QcG0EekI/AAAAAAAAB4o/1lNEJFxuawo/s640/DSC_0611_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n4Pr9r-OVqw/Ua1QcIvOIfI/AAAAAAAAB4k/nfjs5Gf8NKs/s1600/DSC_0614_4x6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n4Pr9r-OVqw/Ua1QcIvOIfI/AAAAAAAAB4k/nfjs5Gf8NKs/s640/DSC_0614_4x6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;I am so thankful to my readers and have enjoyed blogging this past year. &nbsp;Blogging is like any other piece of my life; change is a constant!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gSPddWPZTMg/Ua1QsS2zNUI/AAAAAAAAB5w/TI3PbwBbMa8/s1600/tinny+in+the+grass.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gSPddWPZTMg/Ua1QsS2zNUI/AAAAAAAAB5w/TI3PbwBbMa8/s640/tinny+in+the+grass.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-88298326071301281702013-05-09T12:10:00.000-07:002013-05-09T12:41:45.003-07:00A Geranium Inspired Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I've had a major crush on Rae's<a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2012/12/geranium-dress-sewing-pattern-is-here/" target="_blank"> Geranium dress</a> ever since she released it but I haven't bought it since Peyton is past size 5 which is as high as her pattern goes. &nbsp;Each time someone in blog land makes one I get a bit more sad about not being able to make one. &nbsp;So I decided to make my own version. &nbsp;I found this <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-2216-child-dresses.aspx" target="_blank">Simplicity pattern #5226</a> and thought with some pattern tweaks I could re-create the essence of what I liked about the dress. &nbsp;(One other thought, if big pattern makers would just work on the pictures and fabric used on the front of their packages, they'd sell lots more patterns I think. This one is not good at all but I could see past the "lovey" print and look at the construction. &nbsp;I didn't used to be able to do that!!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R6HARk4rBL4/UYvrz3VqUhI/AAAAAAAAB3o/kac3TFI3MW0/s1600/whole+dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R6HARk4rBL4/UYvrz3VqUhI/AAAAAAAAB3o/kac3TFI3MW0/s640/whole+dress.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Out of all the Geranium dress versions I've seen my favorite is by<a href="http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/2013/01/lotta-geranium-dress.html" target="_blank"> Jess</a>. &nbsp;I loved the print she used and&nbsp;conveniently&nbsp;enough my local quilt shop had this lovely fabric by Lotta Jansdotter! &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b7_mzdILqd8/UYvrubJ-9aI/AAAAAAAAB3g/ad8sOoa1QUs/s1600/dance+pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b7_mzdILqd8/UYvrubJ-9aI/AAAAAAAAB3g/ad8sOoa1QUs/s640/dance+pose.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are my adjustments to the pattern to make it Geranium-esque. &nbsp;First I mainly used the slip dress pattern. &nbsp;But I wanted the button closure so I used the front button bodice piece and blended it with the back bodice piece of the slip dress. &nbsp;I used the sleeves on the slip dress too and eliminated the ruffle at the bottom. &nbsp;I made my own bias tape with a coordinate from the same line.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nng5uzEIdv4/UYvrh7LRfuI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/90Uhw9xuFAg/s1600/back+of+dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nng5uzEIdv4/UYvrh7LRfuI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/90Uhw9xuFAg/s640/back+of+dress.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am very happy with how it turned out, my biggest mistake was making it a size too big. &nbsp;I measured her and she fit the 6 but I sometimes have trouble with her out-growing the tops of her dresses if they are too fitted so I made the 7. &nbsp;I should have stuck with the 6, but we'll get a lot of wear out of this dress since it is quite roomy! :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QIfUbarw7pc/UYvr1V9meQI/AAAAAAAAB3w/dGkZ39JAYrU/s1600/flower+shot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QIfUbarw7pc/UYvr1V9meQI/AAAAAAAAB3w/dGkZ39JAYrU/s640/flower+shot.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am happy with my attempt for a geranium knock-off but I will&nbsp;definitely&nbsp;buy the pattern if she puts it out in bigger sizes!! Hint Hint Rae, if you ever read this!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSEXSIaI31k/UYvuHkMQANI/AAAAAAAAB38/WrYTXIepxzs/s1600/carter+jumped+in.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSEXSIaI31k/UYvuHkMQANI/AAAAAAAAB38/WrYTXIepxzs/s640/carter+jumped+in.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Carter jumped into this picture, he wants to pose with Peyton whenever I am taking pics for the blog. &nbsp;I guess I should sew more for him! We've had a very springy week here which has been amazing! &nbsp;I am getting ready for a major garage sale (like over 13 bins of kids clothes to sort and price) so I don't see a huge amount of sewing for a couple of weeks but I can't wait to unload some stuff! &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z7qzXRn8zMA/UYvrrzFd6pI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/auV2U_CMuS0/s1600/cherry+tree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z7qzXRn8zMA/UYvrrzFd6pI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/auV2U_CMuS0/s640/cherry+tree.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Hope everyone enjoy's a wonderful Mother's Day weekend with lots of hugs from your kiddos!<br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-6488278175658554982013-05-07T12:02:00.001-07:002013-05-07T12:02:49.398-07:00Gingercake Art Tote Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love promoting art to kids, and I love to give art stuff for birthday gifts to Peyton's friends! &nbsp;I've had the <a href="http://www.gingercake.bigcartel.com/product/art-caddy-tote-pdf-sewing-pattern" target="_blank">Gingercake Art Caddy Tote</a> pattern for awhile with the intention of making one for Peyton but it had yet to happen. &nbsp;I finally decided&nbsp;maybe&nbsp;if I made one for a birthday gift I'd actually complete it! :) &nbsp;</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cGo5fZhnIC4/UYlJD7HcOQI/AAAAAAAAB2g/3qTrKJOoYiM/s1600/DSC_0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cGo5fZhnIC4/UYlJD7HcOQI/AAAAAAAAB2g/3qTrKJOoYiM/s640/DSC_0231.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Let me start by saying this pattern is not hard at all, just time consuming with all the pockets and layers of material and interfacing. &nbsp;You need a couple of prints, some cotton batting, interfacing and some stiff pellon interfacing. &nbsp;Yes, that is ALOT! &nbsp;However you really do get a nice sturdy tote, which I really liked.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pPYpJEgzMGQ/UYlJEU4UlUI/AAAAAAAAB2o/NMziPZ8tMI0/s1600/DSC_0226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pPYpJEgzMGQ/UYlJEU4UlUI/AAAAAAAAB2o/NMziPZ8tMI0/s640/DSC_0226.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />For the fabric I was, again, trying to use what I had in my stash. &nbsp;(I've been doing well with that goal, although I did place a rather&nbsp;substantial&nbsp;order for fabric last night!) &nbsp;This Hello Kitty print was planned for an&nbsp;<a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2013/01/projects-to-start-new-year.html" target="_blank">Open Wide Pouch</a>&nbsp;but I think this was a good use too. &nbsp;My one regret (I am pretty sure I have one after every project even when they turn out well!) &nbsp;is that I didn't have any super great coordinates to go with the main fabric. I found some yellow and blue which work but I wish it had been better.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w9vv4t9Ceng/UYlJE-YGG6I/AAAAAAAAB2w/gZxwlpYzrlE/s1600/DSC_0225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w9vv4t9Ceng/UYlJE-YGG6I/AAAAAAAAB2w/gZxwlpYzrlE/s640/DSC_0225.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The other thing I want to improve on next time is the large pocket (shown in the picture above). &nbsp;I think it is best used for markers but it doesn't quite keep them as straight as I want (I know I'm a bit OCD). &nbsp;I think I'd put in vertical lines like on the crayon side for every two or three markers. &nbsp;You'd just have to adjust the spacing for the size you are using. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2u3WFtMeXyQ/UYlJLJns1bI/AAAAAAAAB3A/B_bi86GJ2TU/s1600/DSC_0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2u3WFtMeXyQ/UYlJLJns1bI/AAAAAAAAB3A/B_bi86GJ2TU/s640/DSC_0238.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The best part is filling it up! &nbsp;I loved browsing the art supply aisle at Target and picking out things. &nbsp;It was kind of like back to school shopping which I LOVE!!! &nbsp;I can't wait to buy&nbsp;Kindergarten&nbsp;supplies this summer! :) &nbsp;I really need to make one for Peyton now! &nbsp;Hopefully I can find just the right fabric for her's. &nbsp;I think I want to use the a print from Ann Kelle's girlfriends line, maybe the <a href="http://www.fabric.com/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=6139d86f-6046-4850-8798-df4202e0947b" target="_blank">ballet dancers</a>! <br /><br />Thanks reading, I have a dress to share later this week, hopefully! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nsyx3c_bSMc/UYlJJGTpaYI/AAAAAAAAB24/Hurj4MU6Vf4/s1600/DSC_0233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nsyx3c_bSMc/UYlJJGTpaYI/AAAAAAAAB24/Hurj4MU6Vf4/s640/DSC_0233.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-37709300011091191532013-05-01T05:05:00.000-07:002013-05-01T05:05:40.384-07:00Yeah...I'm a slacker!You may or may not have noticed that I totally missed sewing this past week during <a href="http://blog.kidsclothesweek.com/" target="_blank">KCW</a>! &nbsp;Did you participate in KCW? &nbsp;:( &nbsp;Well let me&nbsp;clarify&nbsp;that, I sewed a lot just not for my kids. &nbsp;I agreed to participating in a craft fair last Saturday and I knew when I signed up that it would probably fall around KCW but I figured I'd just get my craft fair stuff sewn ahead of time. &nbsp;Yeah right!! &nbsp;I spent last week making doll, tooth fairy pillows, cute headbands and big hair bows and some crinkle baby toys. &nbsp;And to really rub some salt in the wound about not sewing for KCW the sale was not&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;successful! Bummer, but how do you know? &nbsp;I think people are thinking about being outside at this time of the year instead of attending a craft fair, maybe??<br /><div><br /></div><div>However I did frequent the<a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1293871@N23/pool/page6/" target="_blank"> flickr</a> pool to try and keep up with all the amazing things in there! There were so many great clothes made this past week! &nbsp;I just had to pick a few of my favorite to share!<br /><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zgii0EsrICw/UYB2G8VMBII/AAAAAAAAB1w/zhx-zCJThcw/s1600/girls+clothes+kcw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zgii0EsrICw/UYB2G8VMBII/AAAAAAAAB1w/zhx-zCJThcw/s640/girls+clothes+kcw.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />First is this amazing<a href="http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/2013/04/kcwc-fox-peasant-dress.html" target="_blank"> fox peasant dress</a> by Jess of Craftiness is not Optional. I almost want to make the exact same dress. Is that okay? :)<br />Next is an amazing<a href="http://homemadebyjill.blogspot.com/2013/04/salty-and-sweet-tees.html" target="_blank"> lace tee</a> from Homemade by Jill. &nbsp;So simple, and those ever popular <a href="http://www.eleganceandelephants.com/p/patterns.html" target="_blank">bubble pocket shorts</a> that I didn't even know I wanted till KCW!<br />Finally is this amazing <a href="http://www.lbg-studio.com/2013/04/kids-clothes-week.html" target="_blank">geranium top and bubble pocket shorts</a> by LGB studio. &nbsp;I love that print, I've been eyeing some of those great Notting Hill fabrics even before seeing this!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-584vV3qN73k/UYCA636N_wI/AAAAAAAAB2A/GzJ12IejkgA/s1600/kcw+collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-584vV3qN73k/UYCA636N_wI/AAAAAAAAB2A/GzJ12IejkgA/s640/kcw+collage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />In this group first are some great&nbsp;<a href="http://oliversfancy.com/2013/04/22/parsley-pants-take-3-the-tuxedo-stripe/" target="_blank">Parsley pants</a>, I love the tuxedo stripe! &nbsp;Then some lovely&nbsp;<a href="http://homemadebyjill.blogspot.com/2013/04/shorts.html" target="_blank">Parsley shorts</a>&nbsp;also from Homemade by Jill.&nbsp;&nbsp;Next how awesome is this <a href="http://www.atluceends.com/2013/04/spring-kcw-knit-sailboat-top.html" target="_blank">lovey owl shirt</a> I love the snaps?! &nbsp;Rounding my favorites&nbsp;is a fun <a href="http://www.falafelandthebee.com/2013/04/26/mod-dot-dress/" target="_blank">self drafted dress</a>, I love the piping at the waist!<br /><br />I am hoping to spend some quality time with my machines very soon! I have a long list but I'll mention the big items I want to whip up. &nbsp;First a dress based on the <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2012/12/geranium-dress-sewing-pattern-is-here/" target="_blank">Geranium Dress</a>, I can't use Rae's pattern since it only goes to size 5 and Peyton needs a 7. I have a Simplicity pattern that I want to play with. &nbsp;If anyone has other suggests PLEASE let me know! &nbsp;I also want to make some<a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2013/04/parsley-pants-sewing-pattern-is-here/" target="_blank"> Parsley Pants</a>, well probably shorts since someday it will stay warm here! &nbsp;Also some raglan tee's for both kids, I haven't decided on a pattern for those yet. &nbsp;And now that I've seen all the amazing <a href="http://www.eleganceandelephants.com/p/patterns.html" target="_blank">bubble pocket shorts</a> I might need to try them too! &nbsp;So many pattern to sew and fabric to buy and yet so little time it seems! :) &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-66348513759271995352013-04-10T06:00:00.000-07:002013-04-10T06:00:06.408-07:0010 months in the making!My sewing style is get it done! &nbsp;I am not one to have WHIPS, I just don't like things laying around undone. &nbsp;I think it messes with my OCD organizational issues. :) &nbsp;Never the less last May in my very first blog post I showed this <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2012/05/what-to-do-without-my-serger.html" target="_blank">quilt</a> I was working on while my serger was getting cleaned and fixed. &nbsp;At the end I even said "Hope my serger comes home soon. &nbsp;I've got some major clothing sewing I want to do!" &nbsp;And apparently that is exactly what happened because after a little over 10 months I still just had a quilt top. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zWlLXLE9paI/UWMs2l8_tTI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/tyHEd_uZpFc/s1600/DSC_0183_quilt+front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zWlLXLE9paI/UWMs2l8_tTI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/tyHEd_uZpFc/s640/DSC_0183_quilt+front.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I even had the back pieced together. &nbsp;So last week I decided to finish. &nbsp;I went with a quick and easy stitch in the ditch quilting pattern. &nbsp;I really wish now I'd sewn a line a quarter inch on each side of the seam rather than right down the seam but I've moved on! :) &nbsp;Before I started blogging I made probably 5 or so quilts a year, so in this past year I've really brought my average down. &nbsp;And it did show, I spent way too much time remembering how to get my binding just right, and my seam ripper got some action than I would have liked. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AfkW6S3EH0c/UWMs1KzA7II/AAAAAAAAB1M/jnIR8P3EhNs/s1600/DSC_0181_quilt+back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AfkW6S3EH0c/UWMs1KzA7II/AAAAAAAAB1M/jnIR8P3EhNs/s640/DSC_0181_quilt+back.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I really should finish sewing projects right away. &nbsp;I was really over this quilt by the time I got around to finishing it and with my rushing it has some flaws which I never like! &nbsp;On the bright side the sun was shining nicely yesterday and I got some good pictures of it and like it more now that it is done. &nbsp;Peyton has claimed it for now. &nbsp;I really need to sew at least 4 quilts a year to keep from getting so rusty. &nbsp;One of these days I'll do a post with a bunch of my past ones. &nbsp;Do you quilt? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p_OSPiDQSJ4/UWMs3RprweI/AAAAAAAAB1c/a18I8aPMc4U/s1600/DSC_0187_wrapped+quilt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p_OSPiDQSJ4/UWMs3RprweI/AAAAAAAAB1c/a18I8aPMc4U/s640/DSC_0187_wrapped+quilt.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-35751826751093608312013-04-08T13:21:00.001-07:002013-04-08T13:21:22.035-07:00The Anywhere Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oh do I love this new <a href="http://gotopatterns.com/products/the-anywhere-dress-for-girls/" target="_blank">pattern </a>by Andrea of The Train to Crazy! &nbsp;Is it the latest addition in her Go To Patterns called The Anywhere Dress. &nbsp;I adore her Go to Dress and have made it many times see <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2012/07/go-to-signature-dress-review.html" target="_blank">here </a>and <a href="http://www.heartlandhappy.blogspot.com/2012/09/oh-how-i-love-this-dress.html" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;This new dress is just as great. The highest compliment that you can hear when you sew clothing is "you MADE that!" and I heard that today when I picked Peyton up at preschool. &nbsp;Another Mom commented on her dress and I said "yeah I made it"! Getting to say that never gets old and totally makes it worth staying up until&nbsp;midnight&nbsp;to finish my vision last night.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNjZ-4l1Lvo/UWMc6Xpox6I/AAAAAAAAB0U/fo32DzxpQWE/s1600/DSC_0197_anywhere+dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNjZ-4l1Lvo/UWMc6Xpox6I/AAAAAAAAB0U/fo32DzxpQWE/s640/DSC_0197_anywhere+dress.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I took advantage of Andrea's <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/2013/04/the-anywhere-dress-sale-alert.html#more" target="_blank">$1 off coupon </a>on her new pattern (it goes though today, so go get it!) and picked up the pattern over the weekend. &nbsp;After looking at it I knew it would be an easy sew and I really wanted to make it right away. &nbsp;I looked though my knit stash and was bummed to not find any 1.5 yard cuts to use which is her fabric requirement for the size 7 I made. &nbsp;But I do love to use every last inch of fabric so I thought I'd see if a yard would work. &nbsp;It did! &nbsp;I folded just enough on the sides to cut the front and back I also squeezed the cuff on there too. &nbsp;Then re-folded the remaining middle fabric to cut the two sleeves and facings. &nbsp;YEAH!&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H3-KGzRtSV8/UWMc_NJISYI/AAAAAAAAB0c/KAAAIviK0NY/s1600/DSC_0199_anywhere+dress+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H3-KGzRtSV8/UWMc_NJISYI/AAAAAAAAB0c/KAAAIviK0NY/s640/DSC_0199_anywhere+dress+2.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I thought I'd have to add length since I usually do on dresses for Peyton and Andrea mentioned it might need to be longer depending on your preferences but it was just fine and I didn't have to mess with that! &nbsp;She wore it with leggings to school this morning but we are finally having a bit of spring here and it will be around 70 degrees this afternoon so I had her give me a bare leg look too! :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niRY5hkq-6Y/UWMdCAwoyeI/AAAAAAAAB04/mfQghwujfJM/s1600/DSC_0219_anywhere+dress5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niRY5hkq-6Y/UWMdCAwoyeI/AAAAAAAAB04/mfQghwujfJM/s640/DSC_0219_anywhere+dress5.JPG" width="425" /></a></div><br />I did spend quite a bit of time getting all the stripes to match up but it was worth it! &nbsp;Stripes bring out my perfectionist tendencies and I just pin like crazy! :) &nbsp;The fabric was also on the thinner side which isn't what is&nbsp;recommended&nbsp;but I made it work. &nbsp;Actually I didn't mind the fabric at all. &nbsp;It was a good way to use it since there is a facing; it helped to "bulk up" the necking and armholes. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8ROYBZQeYw/UWMc_SUK3wI/AAAAAAAAB0o/uN8PU-Wer6A/s1600/DSC_0211_anywhere+dress+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8ROYBZQeYw/UWMc_SUK3wI/AAAAAAAAB0o/uN8PU-Wer6A/s640/DSC_0211_anywhere+dress+4.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />Boy am I looking forward to spring, the grass is turning green and we can finally play in the yard again! &nbsp;I think everyone looks forward to spring, but living in the Midwest where there is more winter than I like makes me so thankful for warm air and sunshine.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c_W5gM6mUfA/UWMc_NP9lxI/AAAAAAAAB0g/S0HUOwE5U3c/s1600/DSC_0201_anywhere+dress3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c_W5gM6mUfA/UWMc_NP9lxI/AAAAAAAAB0g/S0HUOwE5U3c/s640/DSC_0201_anywhere+dress3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;I hope where ever you roam there is some sunshine today, thanks for stopping by! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hxlk-sQ-sB0/UWMdCGj7UCI/AAAAAAAAB00/QDZHvSlpt48/s1600/DSC_0218_anywhere+dress6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hxlk-sQ-sB0/UWMdCGj7UCI/AAAAAAAAB00/QDZHvSlpt48/s640/DSC_0218_anywhere+dress6.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-83342176455630020342013-04-05T14:05:00.000-07:002013-04-05T14:05:50.467-07:00Floral O+S Badminton Skort<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've had this <a href="http://oliverands.com/oliver-and-s-patterns-skirts/OLV-OS031BD.html" target="_blank">Oliver + S Badminton Skort </a>&nbsp;pattern for over a year and just hadn't gotten around to trying it out. &nbsp;I bought it because it looked cute and I love that it's a skort. &nbsp;Shorts under skirts are quite nice in my book! &nbsp;However, then I got kinda nervous about the scalloped edge and thus it was pushed to the back of the pile! &nbsp;Then a week ago or so I saw these cute <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/204562008047039699/" target="_blank">scallop shorts</a> on pinterest and thought of this pattern. &nbsp;So out it came and it really wasn't hard at all! &nbsp;Since this skirt turned out so well I'd like to use the scallop edge pattern piece to create some shorts. &nbsp;I'll let you know how that goes. &nbsp;Now, back to the skort!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WdcM8AACdXI/UV8dbxezAYI/AAAAAAAABzc/1o56ooXHs_g/s1600/DSC_0081_badminton+skirt2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WdcM8AACdXI/UV8dbxezAYI/AAAAAAAABzc/1o56ooXHs_g/s640/DSC_0081_badminton+skirt2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The fabic is Lovely by Sandy Gervais. &nbsp;Last summer or&nbsp;maybe&nbsp;two summers ago I bought a bunch of pretty 1 yard cuts to have on hand to make dresses for Peyton. &nbsp;Well there are still quite a few cuts left and it now take more than a yard to make a dress for her. &nbsp;So I guess they'll be skirts now. &nbsp;It was nice to have enough to make the shorts underneath match. &nbsp;It used up that yard of fabric nicely! :) &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-51-WuD_BMoQ/UV8daCtKCZI/AAAAAAAABzU/rejJEXro190/s1600/DSC_0088_badmintion+skirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-51-WuD_BMoQ/UV8daCtKCZI/AAAAAAAABzU/rejJEXro190/s640/DSC_0088_badmintion+skirt.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Below are a couple of pictures of just the skort. &nbsp;You can kind of see the shorts underneath in the first picture. &nbsp;I am glad it is warm enough to use my fence again for pictures. &nbsp;I love how things look on that fence! :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtXzkSBWKZ8/UV87tM4R9mI/AAAAAAAABz8/wTwfClJS-gQ/s1600/DSC_0150_skort.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtXzkSBWKZ8/UV87tM4R9mI/AAAAAAAABz8/wTwfClJS-gQ/s640/DSC_0150_skort.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDVb3jl8EjY/UV87tTbn4LI/AAAAAAAAB0E/XUZTZDolCuw/s1600/DSC_0155_skort2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDVb3jl8EjY/UV87tTbn4LI/AAAAAAAAB0E/XUZTZDolCuw/s640/DSC_0155_skort2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">I made a size 7 because I wanted it to be a bit longer. &nbsp;It fits very nicely and I hope it will fit for a year at least. &nbsp;Skirts are just so fun to make and this one is no different! &nbsp;O+ S patterns always sew up nicely and I always learn things too! &nbsp;I guess photo shoots are a good time to try out your ballet positions! :) &nbsp;Thanks for visiting!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-KoAXaYTVs/UV8db24AaBI/AAAAAAAABzg/7K7rWRQ-5ng/s1600/DSC_0090_badmintion+skirt3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W-KoAXaYTVs/UV8db24AaBI/AAAAAAAABzg/7K7rWRQ-5ng/s640/DSC_0090_badmintion+skirt3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-82746383192534943452013-04-01T12:49:00.001-07:002013-04-01T12:49:55.810-07:00 Bubble Dress Hello Friends, Happy Belated Easter! &nbsp;We had a nice weekend, but alas I took no pictures! &nbsp;I forgot to take it when we went to our churches egg hunt and I didn't snap any pictures on Sunday either! Oh well! &nbsp;:) <br /><br />I have been busy finishing a quilt I started last May but never&nbsp;finished,&nbsp;which is highly unusual for me as I like to complete things and move on. &nbsp;I also sewed up a Oliver and S Badminton skort which I'll share later this week. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-87BbsDXsAK4/UVng4iEz7SI/AAAAAAAAByo/kfJ6xoWR6_o/s1600/bubble+dress4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-87BbsDXsAK4/UVng4iEz7SI/AAAAAAAAByo/kfJ6xoWR6_o/s640/bubble+dress4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Today though I want to show you a new pattern that I was fortunate to test! &nbsp;An of <a href="http://straight-grain.blogspot.be/2013/03/bubble-dress-pattern-available-now.html" target="_blank">Straight Grain</a> has released a pattern of her fantastic bubble dress. &nbsp;It is a cute pattern and an easy sew. &nbsp;My daughter is on the top end of the size for the pattern. &nbsp;I sewed the size 6. &nbsp;It is a bit short for her but she is very tall. &nbsp;In fact recently I've been asked it she's 7!! Peyton just turned 5 in&nbsp;February. &nbsp;I checked with An and she did add about an inch to the size 6 pattern. &nbsp;I will probably add another inch to that when I sew another one. &nbsp;The bodice fit very nicely. &nbsp;I layered it with a shirt for her to wear last week, a bit more snug but still fine.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fqe_yQ-MeqY/UVnhCrniPPI/AAAAAAAABy4/qzR2ohiQlN0/s1600/bubble+dress1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fqe_yQ-MeqY/UVnhCrniPPI/AAAAAAAABy4/qzR2ohiQlN0/s640/bubble+dress1.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />The fabric was from my stash a print by Joel Dewberry called Aviary. I've been waiting for the right dress to use it on. &nbsp;I did have a "moment" when cutting this dress and cut the skirt panels upside down! &nbsp;After a few tears and major irritation I ordered more and luckily it came quickly and I still got it done with in the necessary time frame! &nbsp;I love to cut fabric, but you have to be paying attention, that rotary cutter can do major damage.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vq-zEPC86g8/UVnhFpwsHbI/AAAAAAAABzI/5UOLe0GoiuM/s1600/bubble+dress2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vq-zEPC86g8/UVnhFpwsHbI/AAAAAAAABzI/5UOLe0GoiuM/s640/bubble+dress2.JPG" width="418" /></a></div><br />The back is an easy button closure. &nbsp;Hopefully I won't hear too much about her hair getting tangled around it. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkK7TP_nrts/UVnhBhni3kI/AAAAAAAAByw/U6aI1lU2gD4/s1600/bubble+dress+back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BkK7TP_nrts/UVnhBhni3kI/AAAAAAAAByw/U6aI1lU2gD4/s640/bubble+dress+back.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I really liked this pattern and want to make another one soon! &nbsp;Make sure you check it out over at <a href="http://straight-grain.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Straight Grain</a> and when your there check out her fun series Belgian Style!<br /><br />One last picture, where do they get their poses sometimes? &nbsp;Happy Monday!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fnSHSapX_mc/UVnhFQtgJEI/AAAAAAAABzE/G2w9U38-QJc/s1600/bubble+dress3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fnSHSapX_mc/UVnhFQtgJEI/AAAAAAAABzE/G2w9U38-QJc/s640/bubble+dress3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>&nbsp;Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-39868152929528793642013-03-21T05:00:00.000-07:002013-03-21T05:00:03.453-07:00Felt food, Tea Party Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Felt food is all over the internet and they were some of the first tutorials I bookmarked (so glad we don't have to do it that way anymore!) Thank you Pinterest!! &nbsp;Anyway, prior to last month I'd never made more than just a couple of things. &nbsp;But with Peyton's birthday last month I decided to try some again! &nbsp;She loves to hold tea parties so when I saw an adorable tray at the dollar store I went off in search of tutorials. &nbsp;I used a variety of tutorials.&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6suM931EBI/UUpsyWl_JjI/AAAAAAAAByM/gAgW3suFNps/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6suM931EBI/UUpsyWl_JjI/AAAAAAAAByM/gAgW3suFNps/s640/DSC_0021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peanut Butter Cookies,&nbsp;Chocolate&nbsp;Chip, Lemon Bars and Frosted Hearts:<a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2011/11/school-bags-the-cookie-jar-fabric-cookies-and-a-little-obsession.html" target="_blank"> Made</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cinnamon Roll: <a href="http://smashedpeasandcarrots.blogspot.com/2010/03/felt-cinnamon-roll-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Smashed Peas and Carrots</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Doughnuts: <a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/2008/06/05/making-doughnuts/" target="_blank">Skip to My Lou</a> and <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=46368.0#axzz2O8ZrSznS" target="_blank">Craftster</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Slice of Pie: <a href="http://smashedpeasandcarrots.blogspot.com/2009/11/pumpkin-pie-with-whipped-cream-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Smashed Peas and Carrots</a> and <a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/2011/10/free-pumpkin-pie-pattern-giveaway-from-heart-felt-holidays/" target="_blank">Sew Mama Sew</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nddfHc7VeFM/UUpsvusGJuI/AAAAAAAABx8/UV-IQCNJzWM/s1600/DSC_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nddfHc7VeFM/UUpsvusGJuI/AAAAAAAABx8/UV-IQCNJzWM/s640/DSC_0006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For the cinnamon rolls I made no changes and they turned out SO cute! &nbsp;I hadn't use puffy paint in ages before making these! &nbsp;For the lemon bars I tried two ways, one is four layers of felt put together, light brown, 2 yellow and white on top with no stuffing. &nbsp;For the other one I did 3 layers; one of each color and stuffed it a bit. &nbsp;I like the four layer one without stuffing the best. &nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OoGx-YiKPU/UUpswCoxqlI/AAAAAAAAByE/9p_kyQfV3wE/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OoGx-YiKPU/UUpswCoxqlI/AAAAAAAAByE/9p_kyQfV3wE/s640/DSC_0003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />All of the cookies are basically like the ones Dana made except that I added a layer of quilt batting between top and bottom. &nbsp;I liked it that way, they are a bit more fluffy! :) &nbsp;Those little chocolate chips made me crazy with all the start and stop sewing!!! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CRE2FkI5GvU/UUpszs49DCI/AAAAAAAAByU/FJiu3VXgjCs/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CRE2FkI5GvU/UUpszs49DCI/AAAAAAAAByU/FJiu3VXgjCs/s640/DSC_0012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>For the doughnuts I combined two tutorials. &nbsp;I used the pattern from Craftster (I liked the thicker doughnuts) but used the directions from Skip to my Lou. &nbsp;I always want to do as little hand sewing as possible!! :) &nbsp;Every time&nbsp;I see the kids playing with these I want a doughnut!!</div><div>Finally for the pie slices I made the pumpkin pie with Smashed Peas and Carrots tutorial and it was good but I was still searching so I tried the other and made a slice of blueberry pie and I liked it too. &nbsp;Basically what I decided was that I liked the pie shape from SPAC and the assembly directions from Sew Mama Sew. &nbsp;Also I liked the whipped cream from Sew Mama Sew's tutorial better. (they are switched on the pie pieces though) Nothing like being ultra picky! Though that is what I liked about crafting, you can do it however you want! &nbsp;I really want to make some more food now. &nbsp;I am thinking healthy food this time. &nbsp;I want to try these for sure. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.joann.com/felt-spinach-salad-bowl/prod1376337/" target="_blank">Felt Salad</a>, <a href="http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/2009/11/fabric-green-beans-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Snap Peas</a>, and <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/382102349604590558/" target="_blank">broccoli and cauliflower</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have you made any felt food and if so do you have some good felt food tutorial to share? &nbsp;I'd love to get some more ideas! Thanks for stopping by!</div><div><br /></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-56569988811479333902013-03-19T05:00:00.000-07:002013-03-19T05:00:09.524-07:00Guest Post for Calling All Kids<div>I'm over at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.alidamakes.com/">Alida Makes&nbsp;</a>today with her Calling All Kids series. I have a fun outfit for Carter so head over and check it out! &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SVngDTzWzic/UUfMatDibyI/AAAAAAAABxs/-ePrtIUjlro/s1600/DSC_0026_shorts.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SVngDTzWzic/UUfMatDibyI/AAAAAAAABxs/-ePrtIUjlro/s320/DSC_0026_shorts.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519960299617599045.post-5915528746354785202013-03-06T05:00:00.000-08:002013-03-06T05:00:16.110-08:00Calling All Kids!Have you heard about Calling All Kids going on over at <a href="http://www.alidamakes.com/" target="_blank">Alida Makes</a> this month? &nbsp;It is a great series with awesome big time bloggers and even a couple of little ones including myself!! &nbsp;Alida is trying to get everyone to think beyond what our normal everyday view of children's clothes is. &nbsp;I've had to think about this quite a bit as my daughter is a girly girl and Carter seems to be a typical boy, at least in the 19 months I've been getting to know him. &nbsp;:) <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nsSx1aaUzsg/UTa1mxOf6oI/AAAAAAAABwk/DwS521GbEes/s1600/DSC_0454_dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nsSx1aaUzsg/UTa1mxOf6oI/AAAAAAAABwk/DwS521GbEes/s640/DSC_0454_dress.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ApRo04X_nJ8/UTa1Ui_QB9I/AAAAAAAABwQ/9gUgGjJS26w/s1600/DSC_0452_puppy+dress2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ApRo04X_nJ8/UTa1Ui_QB9I/AAAAAAAABwQ/9gUgGjJS26w/s640/DSC_0452_puppy+dress2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As I've thought about this idea I figured out what I'll be making for my little guy and I'll be sharing that with you as a part of the series on the 19th. &nbsp;Today though I wanted to show you what I created for Peyton. &nbsp;I picked out this fabric awhile back because she loves dogs. &nbsp;She has pretended to be a puppy since around one and hasn't grown out of it yet. &nbsp;It isn't her normal colors of choice, but she really loves this dress! &nbsp;She likes the dogs but I think why it keeps being worn is the fun shoulder ruffles. &nbsp;The pattern here is no surprise if you've followed me at all. &nbsp;I love the Go to Dress, it so so simple and she always likes them. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MW90kewj7Q4/UTa1Uf7tFII/AAAAAAAABwM/iYwWQSFzS4g/s1600/DSC_0442_puppy+dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MW90kewj7Q4/UTa1Uf7tFII/AAAAAAAABwM/iYwWQSFzS4g/s640/DSC_0442_puppy+dress.JPG" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I hope to keep pushing her beyond pink and purple and over the top girly, but not too hard. &nbsp;I've been told that the dress phase tends to disappear once they are in elementary school and dress are my favorite to make. &nbsp;I'm going to try and keep expanding her colors and help her see that girly can mean much more than pink.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFibBa6wnkY/UTa1YN0s3sI/AAAAAAAABwc/tbL1SGLPzW0/s1600/DSC_0460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFibBa6wnkY/UTa1YN0s3sI/AAAAAAAABwc/tbL1SGLPzW0/s640/DSC_0460.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I never though I'd raise a&nbsp;jewelry, princess, and dress loving girl, but I am! &nbsp;Thanks for visiting!</div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFibBa6wnkY/UTa1YN0s3sI/AAAAAAAABwc/tbL1SGLPzW0/s1600/DSC_0460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">&nbsp;</a>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09218277741142088913noreply@blogger.com8